Alec Bridges might just be SoCal's best kept secret. With his unique
blend of rock/ alternative music, spiritually-inspired lyrics and
soulful guitar playing, Alec has already proven himself to be a
musician to watch. His debut album, Look Inside, was awarded the Best
Triple A (Adult Alternative Americana) Album of the Year in the 16th
Annual Los Angeles Music Awards. Released in the summer of 2006 Look
Inside is vivid songwriting at its best. Built on a blend of catchy
hooks, rich melody, and strong groove, Alec's music has the power to
inspire while leaving the listener wanting more.
Born January 3rd in Laguna Beach, CA, Alec began playing electric
guitar at the age of 10. He immediately began experimenting with a
wide variety of styles including pop, funk, and metal. After
completing high school, Alec's desire to continue his music education
led him to enroll at the Los Angeles Music Academy. Six months into
the program, Alec decided formal education was not the path for him.
He returned to Orange County where he continued to hone his guitar
skills, playing in numerous local bands with styles ranging from
Alternative Rock to Metal to Funk to Progressive Rock to Fusion.
Around this time Alec found himself drawn in a completely different
direction. Through a friend, he was introduced to Yoga, Vipassana
Meditation, and Alternative Medicine. Through these practices, he
found his own voice, began singing and writing songs of his own, and
made the transition from electric to acoustic guitar. Taking such an
unconventional, independent approach would intimidate many, but for
Alec, it has only enhanced his creative capabilities. As a result his
music is infused with a strong sense of self, positive and inspiring.
It is eclectic and energetic, delivered smoothly and with confidence.
During the summer of 2002, while on his way to teach a Yoga class,
Alec had a chance meeting with Ard Matthews, the front-man of South
Africa's biggest rock band, Just Jinjer. After a few rehearsals with
Ard, and a showcase for Capital Records, Alec joined Just Jinjer as
their lead guitarist and moved to South Africa. After six months
spent touring throughout South Africa and the UK, Capital Records
relocated the band back to the US where they would stay for six
months, touring the eastern United States, the UK, and the Caribbean.
In early 2004 Alec left the band to live a more stable life and focus
on his study of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda (East Indian
Medicine), and practice of Yoga and meditation.
Alec returned to Laguna Beach and teamed up with some friends to form
a band of his own, playing numerous local shows, including a handful
of benefit concerts for the Surfrider Foundation and the American
Cancer Society. Alec even appeared in an episode of the popular MTV
series Laguna Beach, which he is quick to point out that he has never
seen. In early 2006, realizing that "now is the time to make this
music happen", Alec discontinued his studies, and began to play solo
shows throughout Orange County and New York City. With the help of
musicians Nate Wood (The Calling, Taylor Hawkins, Keaton Simons) Tyler
Chester, Mike Baas, and Denholm Harding (of Just Jinger), Alec
recorded and released his first album, Look Inside, which culminated
in a sold out cd release show and party. Alec's easy charm and
approachable manner are just a small part of the reason people leave
his consistanly packed shows as avid new fans. He plans to spend 2007
working on his next album and touring the US.
Alec has the potential to inspire others with out preaching. He brings
a much "brighter and more positive" sound, emphasizing the
impermanence of life and the importance of constantly learning and
growing. With a main objective of being true to oneself, it is no
doubt that Alec's music will assist and enthuse listeners to do just
that.
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